The collegiate football season has kicked-off, and with it tailgating festivities. Often lost amid all the fanfare is the fact that high profile game days are among the heaviest for alcohol consumption, comparable to consumption on other well-known drinking days such as New Year’s Eve and Halloween. Traditional tailgating also often consists of fare laden with fats, sodium and calories. But it doesn’t have to! Start a new tradition this year with these healthy tailgating tips.

1. Pace yourself – You’ve got hours of tailgating and the game ahead of you. Alcohol is full of calories (an average beer – 200 calories, margarita – 500+) and over-consumption carries with it a series of other risks, including increased risk of injury, alcohol poisoning and motor vehicle accidents. Intersperse or substitute alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic options.2. Fresh fruit-flavored waters and other non-sugary sweetened beverages will keep you hydrated and healthy.3. Fresh fruit skewers are a great snack and light dessert. Prepare the night before and serve chilled.4. Veggies! Raw carrots, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, celery, zucchini and more are great to snack and grill.5. Delicious dips: Fresh vegetables, whole grain crackers, and salt-free tortilla chips are great alternatives, especially when dipped in hummus or non-sour cream based dips.6. Unique, lean meats like turkey tacos, ostrich skewers, bison burgers are a great way to set your tailgate apart!7. Homemade guacamole and salsa are generally far healthier than the store bought varieties, which are often full of salt and sugar.